Tevita Pangai Junior and Matt Lodge are currently off-contract but it is expected they will sign a one-year extension, while Joe Ofahenguae is free to test himself on the open market and David Fifita will have the same right on November 1 next year.

Brisbane are reportedly hesitant to trigger a release but are considering their options with their long-term future in mind.

Incoming coach Anthony Seibold has been made aware of the discussions.

McGuire's potential arrival is set to have no impact on dealings with Sharks fullback Valentine Holmes, with all reports leaning towards the speedster returning home to Townsville in 2020.

The Cowboys roster is building into a premiership threat yet again with former Dally M Medallist Ben Barba and Dragons winger Nene Macdonald headlining their list of recruits, joined by Broncos centre Tom Opacic and journeyman Kurt Baptiste.